The proposed extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Thamesmead has moved a significant step closer after a public consultation found strong support for the project. The consultation, which sought views from residents and businesses on station designs, accessibility, and the scheme’s potential impact, marks a key milestone in the long-awaited plan to connect Thamesmead with Beckton Riverside.
Strong backing from residents and businesses
The consultation responses highlighted the importance of fully accessible stations, safe active travel routes, and improved connectivity through bus services and potential future rail extensions. Concerns were also raised about construction impacts, including traffic, noise, and environmental effects.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “A new DLR station would be a game changer for Thamesmead, giving residents better connection to jobs, education, and opportunities across London. Alongside this, it would unlock Thamesmead's enormous potential, helping to deliver thousands of much-needed homes and supporting the growth of a thriving town centre and strong local economy.”
Councillors highlight benefits and next steps
Councillor Calum O'Byrne Mulligan, cabinet member for transport, climate change, waste and streets, said: “Extending the DLR to Thamesmead will make it easier to get around for people across our borough and the city. Together with new bus lanes and bus routes, resurfaced roads, as well as major walking and cycling improvements, we're making it quicker, safer and more convenient to get around the borough by every type of transport, improving connections to current and future major public transport hubs.”
He also expressed gratitude for the public’s input during the consultation process. Councillor O'Byrne Mulligan said: “We're excited to take a thorough look at the report and want to say a massive thank you to everyone who shared their views. By listening to residents and working closely with partners like TfL, the London Borough of Newham and the Greater London Authority, we’re creating opportunities and getting things done in Thamesmead as we are in every corner of our borough.”
Extension to boost growth and regeneration
Councillor Tom Creswell, cabinet member for planning and development, said the extension would deliver wide-ranging benefits. Councillor Creswell said: “The DLR extension won’t just slash journey times for local people and Londoners. It’ll be a catalyst for growth, with tens of thousands of new homes, jobs and better connections across the capital, further boosting the regenerative potential of Thamesmead’s as one of the government’s New Towns.”
Every response will help develop the DLR proposals ahead of a Transport and Works Act Order application in 2027. The extension aims to improve transport links for one of London's largest areas without a rail station, and the next steps will involve further detailed planning and collaboration with partners.
